International students face fewer risks abroad as universities and governments boost safety measures

International students face fewer risks today than in previous years, as universities and governments worldwide implement stronger safety measures, according to Career Mosaic’s International Student Safety Report 2025. The report highlights efforts to tackle challenges in housing, mental health, and discrimination while promoting a safer study-abroad experience.

Based on data from 41 countries, the report emphasises how institutions are introducing safety apps, buddy systems, 24/7 helplines, housing protections, and culturally competent mental health programs.

With over 6 million students studying overseas, including 1.3 million Indians, universities and governments are investing in safety to maintain their appeal. As per the report, the institutions are increasingly deploying safety apps, buddy systems, 24/7 helplines, and escorted night transport, along with culturally sensitive mental health programs.

Universities and governments strengthen safety
These initiatives are introduced to ensure that students feel supported and secure while studying abroad.

• 24/7 Support and Technology: Universities in Canada, the UK, and Australia are introducing apps such as My SSP and SafeZone, along with emergency helplines, escorted night transport, and peer-led buddy systems.
• Housing Protections: Canadian and Australian governments are enforcing tighter rental regulations and collaborating with universities to prevent scams and overcrowding.
• Mental Health Support: Institutions are expanding culturally competent counseling, wellness programs, and virtual mental health apps like TimelyCare.
• Community Programs: Orientation workshops, student associations, and neighborhood watch initiatives are helping build inclusive and safer campus environments.

Persistent challenges
Despite progress, nearly 20% of first-year students show symptoms of mental health disorders, with less than 40% accessing campus support. Housing scams continue to affect up to one in three students in certain countries, and discrimination remains a concern, particularly for Asian, female, and LGBTQ+ students.

“International education is not just an academic pathway, it’s an investment in a student’s future,” said Abhijit Zaveri, Founder and Director of Career Mosaic. “The numbers show that while risks like scams or cultural discrimination remain, universities and governments are actively closing these gaps. From digital safety apps to housing regulations and mental health support, studying abroad is safer and more viable than a decade ago.”

According to the report, student safety is not only an ethical responsibility but also crucial for sustaining international education. Countries such as Canada, Australia, the UK, and the US are investing in stronger protections to attract students and reassure families.